The Texan - Fall 2020

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FROM AROUND THE STATE

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USPTA Texas Board Meeting COVID style

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USPTA DUES IN 2021

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WC20 AGENDA

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CRAIG'S CORNER 1

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

A PRESIDENT

MATT WATSON

2214 Prestonwood Drive Arlington, Texas 76012 mwatson@tbarmtennis.com

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

CRAIG BELL

5201 Westgrove Drive Dallas, Texas 75248 972-931-4950 cbell1360@aol.com

1st VICE PRESIDENT

MEL MCREE

3400 Mesa Road Lubbock, Texas 79403 806-786-2660 mel@lubbockcc.org

2nd VICE PRESIDENT

KELLY MARSHALL

2510 Onion Creek Parkway Austin, Texas 78747 kmarshall@onioncreekclub.com

3rd VICE PRESIDENT

ADRIEN CHABRIA

1912 Abrams Rd. Dallas, TX 75214 214-232-5237 adrien@lakewoodcc.com

SECRETARY

MICHELLE STALLARD PO Box 4950 Horseshoe Bay, Texas 78657 512-924-7097 mstallard@hsbresort.com

TREASURER

ERNIE ABRAHAM

13765 Southern Oaks Dr. Burleson, Texas 76028 817-980-9374 abrahamernie@yahoo.com

PAST PRESIDENT

JENNY GRAY

449 Champions Dr. Georgetown 78628 512-930-3783 jgray@berrycreekcc.com EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

CHARLOTTE WYLIE

2113 Winding Creek Drive Keller, Texas 76248 817-521-7483 charlottewylie51@gmail.com

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s we come to the close of the summer season and gear up for the fall season l I find myself reflecting on a year that has certainly tested the resolve of our organization and the tennis community.

The last few months have been a bit of a blur for many reasons, and as we have had to grasp the new guidelines in place as to how we interact with people on and off the court in addition to finding ways to safely organize our programs and play.

Despite all the challenges there have still been some bright spots for our sport, and I am confident there is still more light ahead!

As mentioned in my last article, tennis has been a tremendous outlet for so many and provided much needed reprieve from the stresses of the last few months and has been a great opportunity for us to grow the game. I have spoken to many pro’s in the last month who have had a record summer regarding participation at their respective clubs.

I would like to recognize the terrific leadership that has come from our Executive Director, Charlotte Wylie, and your entire USPTA Texas board. Over the last few months, we have held numerous Zoom meetings and facetime calls to discuss the issues that were in front of us and how-to best handle USPTA Texas events for both this year and our February 2021 conference.

Additionally, the numerous hours spent planning and executing our recent “Fore the Love of Tennis” golf tournament in which we had 70 participants and 8 sponsors.

The event was divided into 3 flights with prizes awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams. It was a terrific event that helped raise needed funds for our organization that will support youth and adult programs around the state. Despite the hottest day of the year at that point, all players managed to have a fun time and enjoy fellowship with tennis professionals, coaches and players from around the state. We look forward to this becoming an annual event for our organization!

We are currently exploring platforms for a Virtual Conference in February 2021 as the board decided it was in the best interest of our membership and organization to not have an in-person conference. Our Education Chair, Mel McRee, is hard at

Matt Watson work researching the best methods at which to provide a great conference providing valuable insight for our teaching professionals. Please stay tuned for more information as we finalize how to best deliver this product to all of you.

If you have not done so already, be sure to get registered for the upcoming Virtual World Conference September 21-22. There will be 5 seminars offered each day. USPTA National has lined up several great speakers for this event and it promises to be a valuable tool for your tennis IQ. If you are unable to join the sessions live do not despair, you will be able to view these later at a time that is conducive to your schedule. There will also be a virtual buying show available for you to see all the latest and greatest products from our vendors.

There is registration information located in this magazine. Be sure to take advantage of this opportunity!

The deadline to complete your Safe Play certification is fast approaching. Be sure to get this completed in order to receive for free USPTA dues for 2021. You must be up to date on your education requirements, as well, so if you are needing continuing education be sure to register for the World Conference later this month. DON’T MISS OUT ON FREE DUES! Wishing you and all your loved one’s continued safety and health!

Matt Watson, USPTA Elite Professional USPTA Texas President

COMMITTEE

CHAIRPERSONS

DATESTHATRATE!!!

2020

Awards Mel McRee Buying Show Chair Ernie Abraham Division Conference

SEPTEMBER 11-12

Kelly Marshal Education Mel McRee Ethics/Legal

3–4

Diversity & Inclusion Finance Ernie Abraham

Lessons for Life Dennis Reblin Long-Range Planning Jenny Gray

Certification and Testing Exam – (full test) Richland Tennis Center

(NRH)

NOVEMBER 13–14

Jr. Development Craig Bell & Adrien Chabria

(Dallas)

OCTOBER

Tommy Connell Jack Foster

Certification and Testing Exam – (full test) Royal Oaks Country Club

Certification and Testing Exam – (full test) Lakeside Country Club

(Houston)

DECEMBER 11–12

Certification and Testing Exam – (full test) Bent Tree Country Club

(Dallas)

Membership Tom Ingram National Convention Jim Sciarro Nominating Alex Bourne Regional Directors Craig Bell Sport Science Bob Haugen Testing & Certification Tom Ingram USPTA Adult Leagues Jenny Gray Elevate Eli Sepulveda USTA Liaison Van Barry

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Join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/USPTATexas

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FROMAROUNDTHESTATE...

Regional Directors needed for Houston & Corpus Christi. If you are interested in providing information and updates for any of these areas contact Charlotte Wylie at charlotte.wylie@uspta.org.

AUSTIN

Kelly Marshall 512-763-8700

Tournaments are starting up again with social distancing restrictions in place, from virtual check ins – to limited mask wearing spectators – everyone seems happy to be outside smacking the ball around again! The CATA Gran Prix is back hosting some local tournaments too!

It was great to see some areas professionals at

the golf tournament in Dallas recently. What a great job USPTA Texas did providing a day off and an opportunity to network with fellow pro’s.

Reminder: Austin Area professionals please feel free to email Kmarshall@onioncreekclub.com with any news we can share with the rest of Texas! Anything from new staff members to accomplishments and other news.

DALLAS

CENTRAL TEXAS

NOTHINGTOREPORT

NOTHINGTOREPORT

Julien Curatella 254-498-6379

Adrien Chabria 214-821-8440

BRAZOS VALLEY Brandon Carlson (817) 691-7055

Tennis is thriving in Bryan/College Station! The Brazos Valley Tennis Association is sponsoring a Fall Mixer with area pros hosting free clinics, as well as open matchplay for B/CS tennis players. The mixer

will be held at Phillips Event Center in Bryan on Saturday, September 12th. Fall league registration has opened, and we are currently sponsoring 3 leagues for the Fall, starting in mid-September: Combo Women’s Thursday daytime league at Traditions, Combo Women’s Thursday night league at Traditions, and a Mixed league on Sunday

evenings (location TBA). Fall lessons are back for the City of College Station on September 20, and registrations are at capacity for most adult and junior classes.

A generous USTA grant was received by College Station Parks & Recreation this summer for new teaching equipment and COVID compliance resources."

FORT WORTH Laura Gilbert 817 312-2045

Taylor Dent (Owner/Director) of The Birch in Keller, Texas at the US Open commentating for ESPN 3 and international. Taylor would also like to announce Jason Brown as the new Director of Youth Programming at The Birch.

SAN ANTONIO Dan Cantu 210-355-1336

NOTHINGTOREPORT VALLEY

Andy Carter 956-412-4100 x104

The Harlingen Country Club will be hosting the $25,000 Men’s Pro Circuit ITF World Tour Tournament October 16-25. The 4

Taylor Dent wild card doubles tournament will begin October 16 followed by the Qualifying singles tournament from the 17-19. The main draw singles and doubles tournament will begin on the 20th and will conclude with the doubles final and singles final on the 24 and 25 respectively.

The Harlingen Country Club held a Men’s singles money tournament in August. $1,250 was up grabs with Alan Magadan taking first place in the men’s open division.

Magadan is currently ranked #4 in Mexico.

GAME. SET. LEGEND. NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Cage 4 Inspired by Rafa’s playstyle, it’s our most durable shoe to date. With added stability, comfort, and responsiveness, the Vapor Cage 4 will help keep you in the game longer.

Available colors for Men and Women.

The Official Distributor of Nike Footwear & Apparel to the USPTA. USPTA Members Receive Preferred MEMBER Pricing. uspta.fromuthtennis.com 5

USPTA Texas Board Meeting COVID style

It Was A Scorcher!!!

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ith so many of our USPTA Texas division programs being cancelled due to the COVID 19 pandemic, division leadership decided to host a golf tournament to help fund the various tennis programs the division runs throughout the year. So on Friday, August 14, 2020 USPTA Texas held it’s August board meeting on the patio at Southern Oaks Golf & Tennis Club and then with all hands on deck, the board pitched in to set up the Fore the Love of Tennis Golf Tournament.

We had 70 golfers brave the 100+ heat and enjoyed 18 holes of golf and a fajita dinner. A big thank you to all the board members for helping put together such a great event! See if you can pick out some familiar faces!!!

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Flight 1 results: 1st: 2nd: 3rd:

Stallard and Tankersley Brandes and McLeroy Trinh and Korinek

Flight 2 results: 1st: 2nd: 3rd:

Wade and Boyd Hill and Johnson Shreck and Brignac

Flight 3 results: 1st: 2nd: 3rd:

Weatherman and Deathrage Hinkle and Still Meineke and Patel 7

Free USPTA Dues in 2021 - Make sure this requirement does not cost you $300!

A big thank you to both the USPTA and the USTA for the grant subsidy providing the opportunity for certified professionals to qualify for free 2021 USPTA dues. There are a few requirements that must be completed by October 1 to qualify for free dues. Please closely review the Continuing Education Requirement and USTA Safe Play training, as these are the most important.

Education Credit Cycle You must complete the following education credits by October 1 to qualify for free 2021 dues.

2020 Education Cycle – 6 education credits (12 hours) 2021 Education Cycle – 4 education credits (8 hours) 2022 Education Cycle – 2 education credits (4 hours) 65+ Member or Member turning 65 before the end of their current education cycle – no education credits are necessary.

The 2020 USPTA World Conference Virtual Event, being held September 21, 22 & 23, is an opportunity to earn 7.5 educational credits (15 hours). To learn more about #WC20 or to register, click here.

If you are not able to attend the conference, it is easy to get the credits at tennisresources.com. View the free educational videos receive credit for watching.

USTA Safe Play The USTA is covering the cost for USPTA members to complete USTA Safe Play training before October 1.

USTA Safe Play is not difficult, but it is the most time-consuming requirement to earn free 2021 membership dues.

You should plan approximately 2.5 hours to complete Safe Play, which shows the USTA’s commitment to the safety of every individual participating in an event or program through the use of screening, education and reporting tools.

If you have not completed Safe Play visit USTA Safe Play training and click on the “Get Safe Play Approve” button.

Safe Play consists of online training (approximately 2 hours), review and acceptance of the USTA Safe Play Policies (10 minutes) and completing and submitting the application for your background screening (20 minutes).

It is important that you input your USPTA Membership Number in your Safe Play profile. For more on that, see “check your status” below.

Already Safe Play Approved? Check Your Status.

This next step is very important for those of you who have already completed Safe Play. You need to check your status and confirm that your USPTA Member Number has been added to your USTA Safe Play Profile. Why? Without your Member Number, the USPTA will not know if you have completed Safe Play or not, and without checking your status, you will not know if you completed all of the Safe Play requirements and if you are current with your Safe Play compliance.

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To check your Safe Play status, visit USTA Safe Play training and click on the Check Your Status button. Then, login to your USTA Safe Play account. Once logged in, you should see four green circles similar to what is shown below.

Additionally, you will see the expiration date for each of the three Safe Play components: SafeSport Training, Safe Play Policy acceptance and NCSI Background Check. It is important that you note these dates so that they do not expire. If they expire before October 1, you will not qualify for free 2021 dues.

Equally important is making sure your USPTA Member Number has been added to your Safe Play profile. Access your profile section on Safe Play highlighted by the red box shown in the image below and enter your USPTA number. In the profile, there are two tabs. You must select the COACH tab, enter your USPTA number in the USPTA box. This will allow USTA to forward your Safe Play status to the USPTA World Headquarters. Failing to complete that one simple task can cost $300. Again, this needs to be completed by October 1, so don’t wait. Thank you!

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Agenda Monday, September 21 Secrets to Successful Doubles for Your Teams 10 - 10:45 a.m. ET

Join 17x Grand Slam champion Gigi Fernandez as she discusses the key ingredients to playing successful doubles. Get tips and ideas to help your adult teams improve their doubles tactics and strategy.

Gigi Fernandez

Lessons From Coaching WTA vs. ATP Players and Winning Grand Slams 11:15 a.m. - Noon ET

Sven Groeneveld shares his experiences over the past 30 years working with both female and male players on the pro tours. Tune in to learn his secrets for leading players to win Grand Slams and how these concepts can apply to you and your professional development and the players you work with.

Sven Groeneveld

Trade Show — Noon - 1:30 p.m. ET Spanish Drills for All Levels 1:30 - 2:15 p.m. ET

Former Spain Davis Cup captain Emilio Sánchez Vicario showcases some of his favorite drills for players of all ages and levels. Help your players improve their shot selection, movement, footwork, and much more. Get ready for a session filled with lots of movement and fun!

Emilio Sánchez Vicario

How Point Score Dictates Strategy 2:45 - 3:30 p.m. ET

Should we be teaching different strategies based on the point score in a game? How important is it to win the first point of the game, and what are the best patterns to play at point scores, such as love-all and break point? Join ATP strategy analyst Craig O’Shannessy to learn all about the different strategies.

Craig O’Shannessy

USTA’s American Development Model: A Framework for Success 4 - 4:45 p.m. ET

The ADM represents a philosophy – Discover, Develop, and Play – that speaks to having fun, developing skills, and playing your way to promote a lifelong love of tennis, and how you and the USTA can work together to grow the game of tennis. See how your tennis player’s experience can be enhanced as a result of applying ADM principles.

D&I Committee Zoom Meeting — 6 - 7 p.m. ET 10

Agenda Subject to Change

Johnny Parkes

Dr. Karl Davies

Agenda

Tuesday, September 22

Wilson Advisory Staff Meeting — 9 - 9:45 a.m. ET Injury Prevention for Juniors and Adults 10 - 10:45 a.m. ET

Learn about key injury prevention strategies for tennis players for all levels from Todd Ellenbecker, VP of ATP Medical Services. Identify the key movement patterns and body characteristics that may signal increased risk for injury, as well as the tennis mechanics that can increase stress and loading on the player’s body.

Todd Ellenbecker

A Chat with Mats on Adult Programming, Events, & Facility Management 11:15 a.m. - Noon ET

Join 7x Grand Slam champion Mats Wilander for a discussion about adult programming, events and facility management, as well as the future of tennis. Mats is the owner and director of Gravity Fitness & Tennis in Hailey, Idaho. The session will be moderated by USPTA Intermountain President Andy Zodin.

Mats Wilander

Moderated by Andy Zodin

Lunch Break — Noon - 1:00 p.m. ET Controlled Chaos: Teaching Large Groups of All Ages 1 - 1:45 p.m. ET

Regardless of what age group you work with, pros can encounter tough situations with large numbers of players and limited courts and equipment. Learn how to manage time, people, and space effectively so you can maximize player Rita Gladstone development and enjoyment.

Ellen Miller

Mental Toughness and the Journey to Success 2:15 - 3 p.m. ET

Don’t miss 14x Grand Slam champion Arantxa Sánchez Vicario as she discusses mental toughness and the keys for success. The session will be led by her brother, former World No. 1 in doubles, Emilio Sánchez Vicario.

Arantxa Sánchez Vicario

Moderated by Emilio Sánchez Vicario

Take Control of Your Career with the Help of USPTA DirectorSearch 3:30 - 4:15 p.m. ET

Are you interested in taking your career to the next level? Join USPTA Master Professional Mark McMahon as he walks you through career planning and discusses the necessary skills to compete more successfully for Director of Tennis / Director of Racquet Sports Jobs. Learn how the new USPTA DirectorSearch services can help you find the job you’ve been looking for.

Mark McMahon

Trade Show — 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. ET Wilson Advisory Staff Meeting — 5 - 5:45 p.m. ET Women’s Virtual Cocktail Hour — 6 - 7 p.m. ET Agenda Subject to Change

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Agenda

Wednesday, September 23 Trade Show — 9 - 10 a.m. ET Women in Coaching: Why Tennis Needs More Female Teaching Pros & Coaches 10 - 10:45 a.m. ET

Join WTCA President Ann Grossman-Wunderlich, WTCA CEO Sarah Stone and Zina Garrison, 3x Grand Slam mixed doubles champion and Olympic doubles gold medalist, as they discuss the importance of having more female teaching pros and coaches in our sport and at your facility. During this session, you will also gain insights about teaching and coaching female athletes and the strategies to help them achieve their ultimate potential.

Zina Garrison

Sarah Stone

Ann Grossman-Wunderlich

The Future of Tennis in a Post Pandemic World 11:15 a.m. - Noon ET

Join USPTA CEO John Embree and Chanda Rubin, former World No. 6 and current Tennis Channel commentator, for a discussion about the future of our sport after COVID-19, coaches that make a difference, the importance of diversity and inclusion and more.

Chanda Rubin

Moderated by John Embree

Lunch Break — Noon - 1:00 p.m. ET Integrative Approach to Holistic Development of Players 1 - 1:45 p.m. ET

USTA Player Development believes in a person-first approach to development. This means not just considering the technical and tactical, but the physical, mental and social components of the game as well. In this session, Player Development U15 national coaches Lori Riffice and Jon Glover will show you how to integrate a holistic approach and apply all components of development to benefit your players.

Lori Riffice

Jon Glover

Digital Marketing for You and Your Business 2:15 - 3 p.m. ET

Join Tracy Almeda-Singian, former WTA Tour player and current Director of Product Marketing for the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans, as she discusses the best practices across the digital landscape and the current marketing trends of today. Find out how to leverage the various digital platforms such as LinkedIn to create success for your brand and business.

Tracy Almeda Singian

Annual Awards Presentation and General Membership Meeting 3:30 - 5 p.m. ET

Join us for the Awards Presentation as we recognize those members who have contributed so much to the industry and our Association over the last year and throughout their careers, to be followed by the General Membership Meeting.

Elevate Committee Zoom Meeting — 6 - 7 p.m. ET 12

Agenda Subject to Change

John Embree

Speaker Bios Tracy Almeda-Singian

Tracy Almeda-Singian is the Director of Product Marketing for the New Orleans Pelicans of the National Basketball Association. She previously served as an Athlete Marketing Manager for Red Bull, where she worked with athletes including NBA All-Star Anthony Davis, LPGA golfer Lexi Thompson, MLB All-Star Evan Longoria and more. While working at Wilson Sporting Goods, AlmedaSingian won an NATAS Emmy as a producer for Wilson’s brand anthem. A former WTA Tour player, Almeda-Singian also served as the tournament director for the USTA Pro Circuit Challenger in Indian Harbour Beach, Florida. She is a USPTA Elite Professional and has been a member for 17 years.

Dr. Karl Davies

Karl Davies, Ph.D. is the Program Education National Manager for the USTA, where he creates and implements training programs designed to increase youth participation in the USTA’s American Development Model. Previously, Davies served as a programming consultant for the International Tennis Federation, working with national tennis federations and Olympic committees in over 50 countries around the world. Davies is an ITF Level 3 coach, the highest qualification attainable, and earned his doctorate in Human Movement Science from the University of Pretoria. He is a USPTA Elite Professional.

Todd Ellenbecker

Todd Ellenbecker is a physical therapist who joined Rehab Plus Sports Therapy Scottsdale in August of 2018 after serving as Clinic Director and Director of Clinical Research for Physiotherapy Associates Scottsdale Sports Clinic for 23 years. He is also the Vice President of Medical Services for the ATP World Tour. Ellenbecker completed his Doctor of Physical Therapy from MGH Institute of Health Professions in 2006. His research focuses on musculoskeletal adaptations in elite tennis players and overhead athletes. He has authored or edited 15 books and 75 individual chapters, and has published over 55 peer reviewed articles in scientific journals. Ellenbecker currently serves as Sports Medicine Advisor to the Arizona State University men’s tennis team. He is a USPTA Master Professional and a 30-year member.

Gigi Fernandez

Gigi Fernandez is one of the most accomplished female tennis players of all time, capturing 71 titles on the WTA Tour, including 17 Grand Slam doubles titles. Fernandez represented the United States at the 1992 and 1996 Summer Olympics, where she won gold medals in doubles. She was named Puerto Rican Female Athlete of the 20th Century and was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2010.

Since retiring, Fernandez has dedicated herself to sharing her knowledge of doubles. She coached the Puerto Rico National Team, the University of South Florida women’s tennis team and Grand Slam champions Lisa Raymond and Sam Stosur. Fernandez developed the “Gigi Method” to teach doubles, which is now available on Doubles.TV. Fernandez is a USPTA Elite Professional and has been a member for eight years.

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Speaker Bios Zina Garrison

Zina Garrison is a three-time doubles Grand Slam champion, capturing the Australian Open in 1987 and Wimbledon in 1988 and ’90, an Olympic gold and bronze medalist and two-time Fed Cup champion with the United States. She earned a career-high ranking of No. 4 in the world in singles, No. 5 in doubles, and spent 14 uninterrupted years ranked in the top-25. She is the co-host of Game.Set.Chat alongside American tennis star Chanda Rubin. Garrison is the founder and CEO of the Zina Garrison Academy, a non-profit organization that provides free tennis instruction, college preparatory classes, nutrition lessons and more for young people in her native Houston.

Rita Gladstone

Rita Gladstone leads programming at the USTA National Campus’ Nemours Family Zone. Gladstone is a nationally recognized USTA trainer and a lead faculty coach of USTA early development camps.

She played collegiately at the University of South Carolina. She is a USPTA Elite Professional and has been a member for 22 years.

Jon Glover

Jon Glover is a USTA Player Development coach, where he led the 2004 boys to the 2018 World Junior Team Championship, the Americans’ first championship since 2012, as well as the 2017 America’s Cup. Previously, he worked as Director of Player Development at Legacy Youth Tennis & Education in Philadelphia, where he coached four players to the No. 1 spot in the USTA national rankings. As a player, Glover was a team captain at the University of Florida, and hold the fifth-most wins in program history.

Sven Groeneveld

For the past 30 years, Sven Groeneveld has coached some of the most accomplished names in tennis, including Monica Seles, Arantxa Sánchez Vicario, Caroline Wozniacki, Tommy Haas and Maria Sharapova, among others. He also coached Olympic wheelchair tennis gold medalist Esther Vergeer.

Previously, Groeneveld was the Head Coach for Swiss Tennis and the Adidas player development program, and owned his own academy in his native Netherlands. Groeneveld is a USPTA Elite Professional and the co-owner of Orange Coach, the worlds largest tennis professional career platform. He currently coaches ATP Tour player Taro Daniel of Japan.

Ann Grossman Wunderlich

Ann Grossman Wunderlich is the president of the Women’s Tennis Coaching Association (WTCA). She competed on the WTA Tour for over a decade from 1987 to 1998. Twice she reached the fourth round of the French Open and once at the US Open, and earned a career-high ranking of No. 29 in singles and No. 131 in doubles. She retired with an even 185-185 career record, and immediately started coaching players of all ages at a country club. She has served on the USTA Olympic and Fed Cup committees, and currently coaches American Francesca Di Lorenzo, ranked No. 128 on the WTA Tour.

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Speaker Bios Mark McMahon

Mark McMahon is a USPTA Master Professional and the founder of McMahon|10s, which assists clubs find the best professionals to be Directors of Tennis and Racquet Sports and provides career coaching and executive education for racquet sports professionals. The USPTA recently partnered with McMahon|10s to power the new USPTA DirectorSearch career development service for members and clubs looking to hire at the director level and above. For more information, visit USPTADirectorSearch.com or McMahon10s.com.

Ellen Miller

Ellen Miller currently serves as the Director of Coaching Education and Player Development at the Houston Tennis Association NJTL in Texas, where she manages the coaching education for over 60 teaching professionals that work with over 10,000 children per year in the NJTL programs at Houston’s 34 Parks and Recreation sites. She also directs the Tournament Player Group for aspiring competitive junior players. Miller is a USTA 10-and-under faculty coach and trainer and a USPTA Elite Professional.

Craig O’Shannessy

Craig O’Shannessy is the strategy analyst for the ATP World Tour, Wimbledon, The Italian Tennis Federation, The New York Times and Tennishead Magazine. O’Shannessy spent three years on Team Djokovic from 2017-19, helping guide the Serbian back to the World No. 1 ranking. With O’Shannessy as his coach, Djokovic captured four Grand Slam championships, including three in a row and backto-back Wimbledon titles. O’Shannessy runs a tennis strategy website at braingametennis.com and is widely recognized as the global leader in tennis strategy. He is a USPTA Elite Professional and has been a member for 24 years.

Johnny Parkes

Johnny Parkes is the USTA Senior Manager of Player ID and Development, overseeing Team USA Junior training structure for 15-and-under athletes across the U.S. and building connections between athletes, coaches and parents. A Master Tennis Performance Specialist, Parkes is an expert in using a holistic approach linking athletic development to tennis skills development. Previously, Parkes worked in grass roots tennis initiatives around the world, and also coached juniors and professional tennis players. Originally from Great Britain, Parkes played tennis at the University of New Mexico and earned a Master’s Degree in Sport Management from the University of East London. He is a USPTA Elite Professional.

Lori Riffice

Lori Riffice is a National Coach for USTA Player Development at the USTA National Campus in Lake Nona, Fla., and brings over 30 years of professional coaching experience. In her role with the USTA, she identifies junior girls and helps establish relationships between the USTA and players, coaches and parents. She also work with Player ID and Development, creating sectional, regional and national camps. A former tennis player at UC Santa Barbara, Riffice is a USPTA Elite Professional and has been a member for 27 years.

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Speaker Bios Chanda Rubin

Chanda Rubin is a former World No. 6 in singles and No. 10 in doubles. She reached the semifinals of the 1996 Australian Open and the quarterfinals at Roland Garros three times. She recorded victories over World No. 1s Serena Williams and Martina Hingis. She won the 1996 Australian Open Doubles title, and was a runner-up in doubles at the 1999 U.S. Open. Rubin also represented the U.S. at the Fed Cup and the 2004 Olympic Games. Rubin is currently a commentator on the Tennis Channel and co-host of the “Game.Set.Chat!” podcast alongside Zina Garrison. She was inducted into the USTA Southern Tennis Hall of Fame in 2009.

Arantxa Sánchez Vicario

Arantxa Sánchez Vicario is a former World No. 1 and 14-time Grand Slam champion, having won four in singles, six in doubles and four in mixed doubles. Sánchez Vicario won 29 singles titles and 69 doubles titles over her 17-year professional career. She is the only tennis player to play in five Olympic Games and is the most decorated Spanish Olympian in history, with two silver and two bronze medals. In 2005, TENNIS Magazine ranked her No. 27 on its list of the 40 Greatest Players of the previous four decades. In 2015, Sánchez Vicario started her professional coaching career, working with Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark.

Emilio Sánchez Vicario

Emilio Sánchez Vicario is a former World No. 7 in singles and No. 1 in doubles. During his career, he won three Grand Slam doubles titles, 15 ATP men’s singles titles and 50 men’s doubles titles. At the 1988 Olympic Games he won the men’s doubles silver medal. He was the captain of the Spain’s Davis Cup team in 2008 when Spain won the World Championship. Sánchez Vicario is a USPTA Master Professional and co-founder of Academia Sánchez-Casal, an elite youth tennis academy, in Barcelona, Spain; Naples, Florida; and Nanjing, China.

Sarah Stone

Sarah Stone is a co-founder and the CEO of the Women’s Tennis Coaching Association (WTCA).

Stone is a USPTA Professional and a WTA Gold Coach with over 15 years of experience working with the world’s best juniors and WTA Tour players. Stone coached Samantha Stosur to three Grand Slam championships, and has also coached six WTA top-100 players and multiple world-ranked men. She is recognized for developing exceptional stroke technique in her players and as an industry leader who has inspired significant growth in women’s tennis.

Mats Wilander

Mats Wilander is a former World No. 1 and eight-time Grand Slam champion, with three singles titles at Roland Garros and the Australian Open and one U.S. Open singles title, as well as a men’s doubles championship at Wimbledon. Wilander helped his native Sweden capture three Davis Cup championships in 1984, ’85 and ’87, and was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2002. Wilander hosts “Game, Set and Mats” on Eurosport, where he covers every angle at every Grand Slam, and co-hosts KickServeRadio, a Tennis Channel podcast. Wilander is the owner and director of Gravity Fitness & Tennis in Hailey, Idaho.

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CRAIG'S CORNER

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big Texas sized “Howdy” to all of you out there who are reading this latest edition of Craig’s Corner.

Could someone please hit the 2020 reset button!! Is this one of the most interesting (or difficult) times we live in or what? Well, in my sixty years of traveling around the sun, 2020 has got to be “the most interesting” or “one of the most interesting” years I’ve experienced. I did grow up in the 60’s which around the late 60’s was quite fascinating as well – especially 1969.

But I’ll tell you this, 2020 has been about as friendly as fire ants as the ol Texas saying goes – meaning - I can’t wait for 2021 to get here fast enough and put 2020 in the rear-view mirror!

So Anywho, with that being said (which ain’t a whole lot), here are my latest thoughts, mental musings and other such mind-bending nuggets to digest for you, the faithful.

On the Lonestar scene, as I was thinking about what to write in this issue of Craig’s Corner, I was reflecting about all the great Texas pro’s I’ve met since I arrived on the Texas Great Game scene in 1987. For right at thirty-three years I’ve been doing business in the Great State and I wanted to say “Thanks” to all those who’ve helped me along the way. There are way too many people to mention but you know who you are and I really appreciate your kindness, friendship and willingness to help me become a better tennis professional by freely sharing your information and your thoughts. And where did most all this learning take place – well at our USPTA Texas Conventions and Buying Shows.

I recall when I first attended a USPTA Texas conference in 1987 being held at the DFW Grapevine Hilton I didn’t know anyone (not one single person) when I walked in those doors.

Fast forward some thirty-three years later and it now takes me two hours to walk through the parking lot just to get in the front door – which I’m certainly not complaining about as I really enjoy catching up with all of you every six months or so. I’m am 100% certain that I have benefited immensely from becoming involved in our professional organization. I cannot stress this enough – GET INVOLVED in some way, shape or fashion with USPTA Texas or maybe your local tennis teaching organization – and if you live in an area that does have a teaching professional organization then start one up!

Through my willingness to get involved, I have learned so much more than I have given back in return. I am positive that if I would

not have gotten involved with USPTA Texas, then I wouldn’t have had the opportunities I’ve had in my professional life – I can guarantee you this!

This is not a PSA (Public Service Announcement) for USPTA or USPTA Texas as I write this column solely on what I can come up with, not what anyone tells me to do - so if you are a young professional, middle aged or older more mature professional like me, it’s never too late for you to offer up your services to the group. You too will personally benefit for the small amount of time that you help shape this organization. We need good tennis professionals like you who are reading this article!! For the success of USPTA Texas, we need talented individuals (male or female) to hold up your hand and say I’ll help in a large way or a small way – really, there is no role to small! But in the end, I can guarantee you that if you do hold up your hand, then you will be welcomed to an organization\association of fellow tennis professionals that will gladly share their thoughts on how you too can and will become a better teaching professional both on and off the court. If you’d like to speak more with me about all the great things you can GET INVOLVED with and how you can personally benefit, I’d be more than happy to speak with anyone. But GET INVOLVED – we need you and you won’t be sorry you did!

On the national front how about tennis finally returning on the world tour! Finally, something to watch on the telly boys and girls – the US Open is officially back and play has been surprisingly well considering that the tour has basically been off about six months. On the men’s side of the draw, Rafa, The King and Stan the Man are noticeably absent but this leaves the door wide open for The Joker to add to his tremendous war chest of Grand Slams. Well, that quite didn’t work out the way Novak thought as headed ended his run early by letting his temper get the best of him. I’m of the ilk that he deserved what he got based on his actions of hitting a ball, innocently enough, directly at a linesperson as he was heading to a changeover. What really infuriated this author was, Joker didn’t even stop by to explain his momentary lapse at good judgment at the “obligatory” post player presser – “I can’t cotton to that” as the ol saying goes. So now, the door is literally wide open to a first-time US Open and Grand Slam champion – which is great to see who can hold their nerves well enough to win seven matches in two weeks! On the women’s side of the ledger a couple of notable absences are world #1 Aussie Ash Barty and former world #1 Samona Halep. But once again Serena lurks in the wings ready and awaiting another opportunity to tie Margaret Court with 24 Grand Slammies and lay claim to being the greatest female player to have ever chased the little yellow ball around the court. As of this writing (September 9th), Serena still has either a resurgent Vika Azarenka or Elise Mertens to go through in the semi’s (bottom half of the draw)

with Naomi Osaka and wunderkind Jen Brady in the top half. It’s been a very interesting US Open as we all know that there are no crowds of adoring fans in The Big Apple other than on a Zoom screen and everyone in attendance is wearing a mask. Give “kudos” to new Chief Honcho at USTA, Mike Dowse, and his crew for making the best out of a bad situation! Ok – since this is live and I’m doing this without a safety net, my predictions are: The Russian, Daniel Medvedev to hoist his first title on the Men’s side and Serena Williams to “finally” get the proverbial monkey off her back and collect title #24. How’s that kids for an “HSO” – Hot Sports Opinion!

On the world stage did you know that the Great Game is the Fourth Most Popular Sport worldwide? This is according to some internet statistics – not fake news, mind you – with no Russian or Chinese involvement\interference in trying to influence this decision! The website mostpopularsports.net uses a new method to measure popularity by tracking the results of website visitor traffic of over 300 sports websites, reflecting which sports the internet users in the particular country are most interested in.

While the methodology is not entirely scientific, it does try and track a critical portion of new media on a worldwide level. “The rankings may not be 100% accurate due to two factors - the internet users in a country may not represent the general population perfectly and second, the sample data we use (Alexa rankings) may not be 100% accurate representation of what the internet users visit”, the site said in a statement. “The worldwide popularity rankings take into account the population of countries and are based on general surveys/discussions on the internet.”

Interestingly enough, tennis came in fourth on the international popularity list scoring one billion fans across the planet. Soccer was “top dog” with 3.5 billion fans, cricket second with 2.5 billion and field hockey third with 2 billion.

Following tennis were volleyball, table tennis, baseball, golf (450 million), basketball and the NFL at 400 million. In the world of the Red, White & Blue however, tennis comes in sixth place behind football, baseball, basketball, hockey and soccer, but does finish ahead of golf which is one spot behind The Great Game as 7th most popular sport in the US of A. Anyway, it's time to circle the wagons, put out the fire and call in the dogs -- until next time, Keep Your Eye on the Ball and Don't Forget the Sunscreen...

Craig Bell CB cbell1360@aol.com craigbell@benttreecc.org 214-762-4691 (cell\text) 17

Texas Tennis Sportsmanship Tips The following are recommendations provided by the USTA Texas Sportsmanship Committee

The Golden Rule of Sportsmanship in Tennis: Treat your opponent, coaches and spectators the way that you would want to be treated Your Reputation Matters

●

Realize that you are representing not only yourself, but also your school, your family, your coach, your academy, your city and (at a national tournament) your state Apologize for your own bad behavior From the sidelines, cheer equally for both players Encourage your doubles partner. No blaming or showing frustration towards partner Be motivational to others, you are someone’s role model Be the example you want to see from others on and off the court – Lead by example

● ● ● ● ●

On the Court ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Playing fairly is the only way to play Correct the score in favor of your opponent, if needed No gamesmanship during the match Return the tennis balls from your side of the court to your opponent properly Keep your comments positive, and If in doubt, the ball is good Correct incorrect calls you make immediately In doubles, correct your partner’s incorrect call immediately When a ball lands close to the line but is out, make the call loud but not obnoxiously Call out score, by either player, loud enough so opposing player and spectators can hear, but not obnoxiously When players are unmatched, the better player should stop being overly aggressive – Win quietly – Also, spectators should not clap or cheer as vehemently and show great compassion and empathy

●

Off the Court ● ●

Older or more experienced players should be mentors to younger players Respect yourself – Respect your opponent – Respect your coach – Respect your family – Respect the officials No parental involvement before, during or after the match No coach involvement before, during or after the match Going to opposing parent and coach AFTER the match and tell them “Good match” whether they win or lose Help during rain delays by squeegeeing Help volunteers setting up site or breaking down at the end of the day Encourage other players to help as well Expressing sincere gratitude and appreciation to the site directors, tournament director, referee, officials and volunteers at the end of the day

● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Win with class and dignity – Lose with class and dignity

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